The Scent of Victory: Highlights from the First Philippine Aroma Master Championship
On December 7, 2024, the Philippine coffee community gathered for an extraordinary milestone—the First Philippine Aroma Master Championship (PAMC). Hosted in the newly opened The Giving Cafe A. Mabini in Mandaluying Metro Manila, this groundbreaking event celebrated the art and science of aroma in coffee, bringing together passionate baristas, coffee enthusiasts, and industry professionals from across the nation. As the first competition of its kind in the Philippines, PAMC marked a significant step forward in showcasing the country’s growing expertise in sensory coffee evaluation and its commitment to excellence in every cup.
This landmark event was made possible through the collaboration of esteemed sponsors: Henry & Sons, Scentone, Coffee Lab, Figaro, Angels Pizza, The Giving Café, and Dripp. Together, they created an immersive experience that highlighted not only the competitive spirit of participants but also the rich heritage and potential of Philippine coffee.
After a series of intense and challenging rounds, Ricca Sharymaine from Baguio City emerged as the first-ever Philippine Aroma Master Champion, earning her the honor of representing the Philippines at the World Aroma Master Championship in March 2025 in Vietnam. Joining her on the podium were Karl Zouriel Lat, who claimed second place, and John Eric Enopia, who secured third. Their exceptional skills and dedication are a testament to the talent and passion within the Philippine coffee community.
Join us as we dive into the highlights, inspiring stories, and lasting impact of this unforgettable celebration of aroma mastery.
The Art and Science of Aroma in Coffee
Coffee is more than a beverage; it is an experience that engages all the senses. Among these, aroma holds a special place, forming the first impression of a cup and profoundly influencing how we perceive its flavor. The Philippine Aroma Master Championship (PAMC) aimed to spotlight this critical aspect of coffee appreciation, transforming it into an exhilarating competition.
Why Is Aroma So Important?
Coffee contains over 1,000 volatile aroma compounds, each contributing to its unique sensory profile. From the floral notes of a high-altitude Arabica to the tropical fruity notes of Liberica, these aromas tell the story of the bean’s journey—from farm to cup. Liberica, in particular, is celebrated for its bold and vibrant profile, featuring tropical flavors like ripe jackfruit, mango, pineapple, and hints of citrus. These fruity characteristics, combined with natural earthiness and nutty undertones, make Liberica a standout varietal that truly represents the richness of the Philippine terroir.
Understanding and identifying these complex aromas is essential for coffee professionals, as they provide key insights into coffee quality, origin, and processing. One of the most important skills a coffee professional must develop is the ability to describe and communicate aroma and flavors effectively. Scentone, one of the competition’s key sponsors and the creator of the competition, has made it their mission to cultivate this common language. Their aroma kits and training tools help coffee professionals articulate sensory experiences with precision, making it easier to share knowledge and elevate coffee appreciation worldwide.
Competition Format and Challenges
The Philippine Aroma Master Championship (PAMC) was designed to test participants’ sensory skills through a progressively challenging format. The competition consisted of three rounds, with each round increasing in difficulty and pushing competitors to demonstrate exceptional precision, focus, and mastery of aroma identification.
To keep the competition intense and fair, each participant was given a 3-minute time limit per round to identify the aromas. Advancement was based on who had the most correct answers, and in the event of a tie, the fastest completion time determined who progressed to the next round.
Round One: The Starting Challenge
In the first round, participants were introduced to 10 scents. For each scent, they were presented with three visual cards, each depicting a potential answer. Competitors had to select the card that accurately represented the aroma. This round served as an introduction, testing the participants’ basic sensory abilities and their familiarity with distinct aroma profiles within the 3-minute timeframe.
Round Two: Raising the Stakes
The second round heightened the challenge by presenting 10 new scents. However, participants were given six visual cards per scent to choose from, doubling the complexity. This round demanded sharper focus, deeper olfactory knowledge, and the ability to work swiftly under the pressure of the time constraint.
Round Three: The Ultimate Test
The final round was the ultimate sensory gauntlet, where the remaining participants faced their toughest challenge yet. They were presented with five scents, and instead of a limited set of options, they had to identify each aroma correctly using a stack of 144 visual cards. The increased difficulty and the ticking clock tested not only their olfactory precision but also their ability to remain composed under extreme pressure.
Advancement Criteria
• Accuracy: Participants with the highest number of correct answers advanced to the next round.
• Speed as a Tiebreaker: In cases of a tie, the participant who completed the round in the shortest time earned the spot to move forward.
This exciting and demanding structure combined the elements of speed, precision, and endurance, ensuring that only the most skilled and focused competitors made it to the top.
Event Highlights and Atmosphere
The First Philippine Aroma Master Championship was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of coffee culture, community, and excellence. Held at the newly opened The Giving Café A. Mabini in Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, the event brought together participants, judges, and a supportive audience of coffee enthusiasts and professionals. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, camaraderie, and a shared love for the craft of coffee.
A Celebration of Filipino Coffee Expertise
The venue buzzed with the collective passion of those present. Participants showcased their sensory skills in a setting that underscored the growing sophistication of the Philippine coffee community. The event served as a platform to highlight the expertise and dedication of Filipino coffee professionals, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art and science behind coffee.
Memorable Moments
1. Tension and Triumph in the Final Round:
The final round, where participants had to identify five aromas using a daunting stack of 144 visual cards, was a nail-biting experience for everyone in attendance. Competitors raced against the clock, demonstrating their precision and composure in a true test of sensory mastery.
2. The Rise of Ricca Sharymaine:
Cheers filled the air as Ricca Sharymaine from Baguio City was crowned the first-ever Philippine Aroma Master Champion. Her ability to identify aromas with both accuracy and speed set her apart, earning her the honor of representing the Philippines at the World Aroma Master Championship in Vietnam.
3. Recognition for the Runners-Up:
Karl Zouriel Lat, who placed second, and John Eric Enopia, who took third, were celebrated for their impressive performances. Their determination and skills reflected the incredible talent within the Philippine coffee community.
A Showcase of Innovation
The event spotlighted the cutting-edge tools and techniques that are shaping the future of coffee appreciation. Scentone, the creator of the competition, provided state-of-the-art aroma kits and sensory training tools that challenged participants to elevate their craft. These tools exemplified the importance of building a common sensory language in advancing coffee excellence.
A Community United by Passion
The championship fostered a sense of unity among participants, judges, and attendees. It was an opportunity to share experiences, exchange insights, and celebrate the collective dedication to Philippine coffee. Those present left the event inspired to continue refining their skills and championing the potential of the local coffee industry.
A Showcase of Innovation and Insight
The First Philippine Aroma Master Championship was not just a test of sensory skills but also a platform for advancing the coffee industry through innovation and data-driven insights. One of the most notable highlights of the event was the presence of Jake Ahn, the founder of Scentone, who played a pivotal role in both the competition and its post-event analysis.
Jake Ahn’s Presence and Contribution
Jake Ahn’s attendance underscored the global significance of the event and Scentone’s commitment to fostering sensory excellence worldwide. Beyond supporting the competition, Jake presented a post-championship report, based on data collected during the Philippine Aroma Master Championship. The report provided an in-depth analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, and overall aroma mastery of Philippine participants compared to competitors from other countries, such as Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand.
Key Insights from the Post-Championship Report
The report highlighted areas where Philippine participants excelled, as well as opportunities for growth in sensory skills. Among the findings:
• Strengths:
Philippine participants demonstrated remarkable familiarity with the stone fruits and berry aroma categories. Their ability to identify aromas such as peach, apricot, cherry, and various berries with precision was a standout aspect of their performance.
• Weaknesses:
The report also revealed certain categories where participants had less familiarity, highlighting potential areas for focused training to bring their skills to international standards.
• Comparative Analysis:
When compared to participants from other countries, the report showed how the Philippines holds unique strengths in specific aroma categories, while also emphasizing the need for broader aroma exposure and practice in more nuanced or less familiar scents.
Impact of the Findings
Jake Ahn’s insights were invaluable for participants, judges, and organizers, providing a clear roadmap for improving sensory skills and fostering competitive excellence. The findings not only validated the progress of the Philippine coffee community but also inspired attendees to strive for greater heights in preparation for future competitions, including the upcoming World Aroma Master Championship in Vietnam.
The event served as a reminder that competitions like PAMC are not just about celebrating the best but also about learning, growing, and elevating the entire coffee community.
Profiles of the Winners: Champions of Aroma Mastery
The First Philippine Aroma Master Championship not only showcased exceptional talent but also crowned individuals who embodied precision, focus, and a deep understanding of coffee aromas. Each winner brought a unique story and skill set to the competition, making their victories truly inspiring.
Ricca Sharymaine: The First Philippine Aroma Master Champion
Hailing from the picturesque city of Baguio, Ricca Sharymaine emerged as the champion of the First Philippine Aroma Master Championship, earning the honor of being the first-ever Philippine Aroma Master. Her impressive performance across all three rounds demonstrated her remarkable sensory skills, especially under the pressure of the final round’s daunting 144 visual cards.
Ricca’s victory was not just about talent but also a testament to her dedication and hard work. She spent weeks preparing for the championship, fine-tuning her olfactory memory and refining her knowledge of aroma categories. Her consistent scores throughout the competition reflected her mastery:
• Round 1: 9/10 correct answers
• Round 2: 7/10 correct answers
• Round 3: 3/5 correct answers
These scores proved pivotal in securing her place at the World Aroma Master Championship in Vietnam, where she will represent the Philippines in March 2025. Ricca is now focused on further honing her skills, aiming to showcase the country’s growing expertise in coffee aroma mastery and to inspire others in the Philippine coffee community.
Her victory not only celebrates her individual achievement but also highlights the potential of Filipino coffee professionals to excel on a global stage.
Karl Zouriel Lat: The Precision Runner-Up
Securing the second place, Karl Zouriel Lat impressed both the judges and the audience with his sharp accuracy and focus. Known as a cafe owner and an excellent brewer and barista, Karl consistently excelled in the aroma identification challenges, showcasing a balanced blend of speed and precision. His determination and skill set reflect the depth of talent within the Philippine coffee community, positioning him as a promising contender in future competitions.
John Eric Enopia: A Stellar Third Place Finish
Claiming third place, John Eric Enopia brought a strong competitive spirit and a deep passion for sensory coffee evaluation to the First Philippine Aroma Master Championship. His ability to identify a wide range of aromas, coupled with his calm demeanor under pressure, earned him a well-deserved spot on the podium.
John Eric is no stranger to the spotlight; he is also the reigning Philippine Aeropress Champion, having recently represented the country in the international Aeropress competition. His success across different coffee competitions reflects his versatility, resilience, and dedication to the craft.
John Eric’s journey in the Aroma Master Championship highlighted the importance of focus and determination, inspiring others in the Philippine coffee community to push their boundaries and strive for excellence. His achievements continue to set a high standard for aspiring coffee professionals in the country.
Inspiration for the Coffee Community
The achievements of Ricca, Karl, and John Eric are a testament to the potential of Filipino coffee professionals to shine on the global stage. Their performances serve as an inspiration for the coffee community, encouraging others to hone their sensory skills and contribute to the continued growth of the industry.
The Road Ahead: Representing the Philippines on the Global Stage
With the First Philippine Aroma Master Championship concluded, the focus now shifts to the World Aroma Master Championship set to take place in March 2025 in Vietnam. This prestigious international event will bring together the best aroma masters from around the globe, providing a platform to showcase sensory expertise and cultural diversity in coffee.
Preparing for Vietnam
For Ricca Sharymaine, the first Philippine Aroma Master, the road ahead is filled with intensive preparation. Competing on a global stage requires not just a deep knowledge of aroma categories but also an understanding of international trends and standards in sensory evaluation. Ricca plans to:
• Refine her skills: Building on her strengths while addressing any weaker areas identified in the competition.
• Expand her sensory repertoire: Gaining exposure to a wider range of aromas and compounds to prepare for the challenges ahead.
• Collaborate with mentors: Seeking guidance from coffee professionals and sensory experts to fine-tune her approach.
The Philippine coffee community is rallying behind Ricca, providing support, encouragement, and resources to help her succeed. Her participation at the World Aroma Master Championship is not just a personal milestone but also an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the Philippines’ growing expertise in coffee.
The Impact of the Championship
The success of the Philippine Aroma Master Championship has already begun to ripple through the coffee industry:
• Elevating the Craft: The competition has inspired baristas, coffee enthusiasts, and professionals to refine their sensory skills and embrace the challenge of aroma mastery.
• Encouraging Global Competitiveness: By setting a high standard for sensory evaluation, the championship has positioned the Philippines as a contender in the international coffee scene.
• Fostering Community: The event has strengthened bonds within the local coffee community, creating a culture of collaboration and shared growth.
Looking Forward
The journey doesn’t end in Vietnam. The foundation laid by the First Philippine Aroma Master Championship is expected to inspire more competitions, training programs, and initiatives that will further elevate the country’s coffee industry. With champions like Ricca Sharymaine, Karl Zouriel Lat, and John Eric Enopia leading the way, the future of Philippine coffee looks incredibly bright.
A Call to Action: Supporting Ricca’s Journey
As Ricca Sharymaine prepares to represent the Philippines at the World Aroma Master Championship in Vietnam, she carries with her not just the hopes of the Philippine coffee community but also the promise of showcasing the country’s emerging sensory talent on a global stage. Her journey is a testament to the hard work, passion, and resilience that define the local coffee industry.
We invite you to join us in supporting Ricca’s journey. Here’s how you can get involved:
• Follow Her Journey: Stay updated on Ricca’s preparations and progress by following Ricca, The Giving Café and Henry & Sons on social media. Exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes stories, and event highlights will be shared in the months leading up to the championship.
• Celebrate Philippine Coffee: Visit local coffee shops, learn about the unique flavors of Philippine coffee, and share your love for the craft. Every cup you enjoy supports the farmers, roasters, and professionals who make it possible.
• Spread the Word: Share Ricca’s story and the success of the Philippine Aroma Master Championship with friends and fellow coffee enthusiasts. Let the world know about the incredible talent and potential of the Philippine coffee community.
A New Chapter for Philippine Coffee
The First Philippine Aroma Master Championship has ignited a spark that will continue to burn brightly in the years to come. As Ricca takes her place on the global stage, she represents not only her own achievements but also the collective dedication of a nation passionate about coffee.
Let’s come together to support her journey and celebrate the bright future of Philippine coffee. Here’s to more champions, more breakthroughs, and more reasons to raise a cup to the vibrant coffee culture of the Philippines.
